I agree that this season seems off...
But I feel like we have more *suspense* that last season regarding team placement. I mean last season it was always going to be between the girls and Jillian/Emmett, while this season I feel like anymore in the top 5 (except Karen & Burt) may have a chance to win this.
I think the problem this year may be the locations, Vancouver for a third time, another BC leg, Ottawa and Regina again. I liked the international legs, but only the Newfoundland and Alberta legs in Canada were good.
Also the teams are a bit bleh. I don't know....I don't relate to the teams that much. I feel like we need more 'regular' everyday person teams. I don't want to see just top-model/super good looking people. Beside Deb & Shabbir, and maybe Karen & Bert, I feel like every other person is like a 20 something good looking/athletic/smart, etc. I want to see grandparents, curvey people, nerds, the girl next door, etc.
Anyway, I still love this season and will continue watching, but I wish for a more diverse cast.